Morning Bell: Obama’s Arrogant Authoritarianism

Last week, President Barack Obama took the latest step on his road toward an arrogant, new authoritarianism with four illegal appointments that entirely trampled on the Constitution’s requirements. More troubling still, the President chose to shred the Constitution all in the name of serving his Big Labor agenda while killing jobs in the process.

The President’s actions once again gave voice to his animating view of governing: doing so is much easier when one isn’t constrained by the Constitution and its checks and balances. “We can’t wait,” the President exclaimed after unilaterally appointing Richard Cordray as director of the newly inaugurated Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). He also appointed three officials to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), two of whom had been nominated less than a month before.

The policy implications of the President’s appointments? The CFPB will now have unmitigated authority to issue regulation upon regulation, contributing to the already-crippling red tape that is strangling business in America. And the NLRB will have the power to advance the President’s agenda to bolster unions across the country at the expense of job growth in a smarting economy.

For what, exactly, can’t the President wait? Quite simply, constitutional republicanism — the system of checks and balances integral to American government and political freedom. He grew impatient with the delays that inevitably accompany any legislative action an acted outside the Constitution’s mandated process. But the American people should ask, “Is such action really preferable to a deliberative, if slower-moving, constitutional republic?”

The President’s appointments last week, troubling as they are, are but the next steps on the road to a despotic form of governance that has come to characterize his Administration — and all of liberalism in America today — what authors Fred Siegel and Joel Kotkin termed in City Journal this week Obama’s “New Authoritarianism.” Frustrated by the unwillingness of the people’s representatives to enact his agenda wholesale, Obama has, from early in his Administration, sought to enact a series of proposals through administrative fiat, not the legislative process:

The Democrat-controlled Senate rejected his cap-and-trade plan, so Obama’s Environmental Protection Agency classified carbon dioxide, the compound that sustains vegetative life, as a pollutant so that it could regulate it under the Clean Air Act.

After Congress defeated his stealth-amnesty immigration proposal, the DREAM Act, the Department of Homeland Security instructed Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials to “adopt enforcement parameters that bring about the same ends as the DREAM Act,” as Heritage’s Mike Brownfield explained.

When the woefully misnamed Employee Free Choice Act–explicitly designed to bolster labor unions’ dwindling membership rolls–was defeated by Congress, the NLRB announced a rule that would implement “snap elections” for union representation, limiting employers’ abilities to make their case to workers and virtually guaranteeing a higher rate of unionization at the expense of workplace democracy.

After an innovation-killing Internet regulation proposal failed to make it through Congress, the Federal Communications Commission announced — on Christmas Eve, no less — that it would regulate the Web anyway, despite even a federal court’s ruling that it had no authority to do so.

In its push for national education standards, the Education Department decided to tie waivers for the No Child Left Behind law to requirements that states adopt those standards, shutting Congress out of the effort.

Rather than push Congress to repeal federal laws against marijuana use, the Department of Justice (DOJ) simply decided it would no longer enforce those laws.

DOJ made a similar move with respect to the Defense of Marriage Act: rather than seeking legislative recourse, DOJ announced it would stop enforcing the law.

While these efforts are all aimed at circumventing the legislative process, none was so brazen as his four illegal appointments. Last week, Obama went one step further: He violated not just the spirit of the Constitution, which vests in Congress the power to make laws, but the letter of the law as well.

The move is “a breathtaking violation of the separation of powers,” explain former U.S. Attorney General Ed Meese and Heritage colleague Todd Gaziano, a former attorney in DOJ’s Office of Legal Counsel, in a Washington Post column. “[N]ever before has a president purported to make a ‘recess’ appointment when the Senate is demonstrably not in recess,” they note. “That is a constitutional abuse of a high order.”

Dr. Matthew Spalding, vice president of American Studies and director of the B. Kenneth Simon Center for Principles and Politics at The Heritage Foundation, explains that this “new despotism” — a government where regulations and unilateral actions replace republican governance — runs entirely counter to the Founders’ vision of America:

The greatest political revolution since the American Founding has been the shift of power away from the institutions of constitutional government to an oligarchy of unelected experts. They rule over virtually every aspect of our daily lives, ostensibly in the name of the American people but in actuality by the claimed authority of science, policy expertise, and administrative efficiency.

If this regime becomes the undisputed norm — accepted not only among the intellectual and political elites, but also by the American people, as the defining characteristic of the modern state — it could well mark the end of our great experiment in self-government.

President Obama’s actions are exactly the kind that the Founders feared and sought to guard against. His illegal appointments usurp power from the American people’s duly elected representatives, and the regulations they will promulgate will, undoubtedly, contribute to the unabated growth of the undemocratic administrative state.

Now that the President has crossed the threshold of constitutionality, there really is no telling where he may stop. There is a clear trend here, however, and it leads further and further from the constitutional order. With these illegal appointments, the President has taken to new heights his disdain for the separation of powers. Whether it will stop here depends on Congress — Will lawmakers of both parties reassert the legislature’s constitutional authority and take a stand against Obama’s arrogant new authoritarianism?

The law allows for the President to appoint people to these positions if Congress is in recess; however, as the article clearly stated, it was not. Don't you read anything before you post or are you just exercising the penchant you liberals have for knee-jerk reactions?

Bush never did the same thing 61 times. Recess appointments while in session have never been done… until now. The Senate was in a pro forma session; therefore, in session. Bush did do recess appointments–while Congress was in recess–which is allowed allowed under Article 1 Section 5 of the Constitution. A recognized recess, as argued by the Obama DOJ to the Judiciary, is no less than 3 days.

Even if Bush had done it 61 times, it would be no less right. And it should had been addressed as well.

Believe me, I like Heritage's assessment of the flagrant violation of our Constitution by this President. Obama gave as a reason for violating the Constitution that he couldn't wait. Well, I can't wait either to get rid of the ruling socialist from his perch at the White House. Why should I wait until the next election?
So, what I am saying is that we all understand the lawlessness of this administration but we don't have any clear doable solutions that not only removes the offending people but to restore the Constitution. I wish the Heritage Foundation will offer more concise ways to remedy the situation and not just talk about the violations. The only person runnig for the office of the president that talks about remedies rooted in the Constitution is Ron Paul and this by no means an endorsement. I do admire his tenacity.

Your an intelligent man therefore,you have to know. This Goes much deeper then Obama. The powers that be,that could intercept his actions,are simply terrified. Terrified of those that are really running this country with Obama. The snow ball is growing huge,the American people are the only ones that can stop the tragedy that is destroying thus great country. VOTE. We need a Reagan.

There is a constitutional way to remove a lawless president, it is called impeachment!!!!!!!!!!!! However we have to find enough off our enuch congress to press the point. So far they all seem happy to let him have free rein.

I understand the gravity of the situation so my questions are as follows: How do we stop these actions, how do we reverse the effects of these actions and who in our Congress is taking the responsibility to thwart this illegal activity?

Can I, as an American citizen, sue President Obama for 'breach of contract'? He took an oath at his swearing in ceremony that he would "…uphold the Constitution….". He swore this to me and every citizen. I have no confidence in him as my President and only pray to God that the American people will wake up to this tyrant's ways and vote him out!

sdfultz – What do you mean "not true"??? If you are saying that the appointments without the proper vetting are okay — where did you go to school! In my day (at school) we were tested on our knowledge of the Constitution and Bill of Rights to the MAX! So, I have a fairly good understanding and know without a doubt, Obama has overstepped his authority by making these appointments. We are headed down the wrong road with this guy in the oval office. Congress needs to repeal, yes REPEAL the President's Executive Order priviledges – TODAY! This guy has abused the Constitution so much — his actions are treasonous!

I agree…so WHATS being done about this continuing abuse. I get so tired of reading about all of this abuse of power, yet I can't find anything-anywhere about what the hell is being done to stop this man. Surely he's committed treason or an impeachable offense !

Ben, I'm thinking the same thing. We know what he and his liberals are doing and my wife and I always say, what can be done about it-nothing. There is no one that will stop him. This is why I wonder at times whether there a revolt will take place as in the early days of our Republic. What are the solutions?

Nothing is going to be done. Republicans are crossing their fingers and hoping that Obama gets defeated in November so that they won't have to deal with impeachment and lose voters because they are picking on a blackman. Even they can't treat Obama has a human being, a corrupt human being. They will act just like a politically-correct, in the closet racist Democrat. Democrats don't care about the Constitution or the rule of law; they just care about power and the fantasy world between their ears.

It must be remembered that Obama is only the latest in a long line of big government Ds or Rs that ignore or trample on the Constitution. Most dumbed-down American voters are still led by the nose by the MSM (including Fox News who ignore, dismiss or marginalize small government, Constitution-loving Ron Paul). The MSM & Major Party establishment offer up only 2 choices: big government, Constitution trampling candidate D or R. Vote for the lesser of two evils. We do not want you to vote for anyone else.

Thus, dissatisfied & more aware voters leave the D or R brand names & increasingly become Independents or 3rd Party voters. The Heritage Foundation must avoid aligning itself too closely with a falsely conservative GOP… or it will be Heritage's downfall.

Your not looking at this Logically…There is no such thing as a third party. A person is either a liberal or a conservative. That's it. Anything else in between is a liberal that is too much of a coward to admit that they are liberal. The fact that most (Real) conservative fall on the (R) side is just a fact of life. The problem is these (R) who are really your third party people, coward liberals. So the organization as the Heritage Foundation has done all they can by associating themselves with the lessor of two evils. That is just a fact of life, that is never going to change.

Frank said: "The Heritage Foundation must avoid aligning itself too closely with a falsely conservative GOP… or it will be Heritage's downfall."
reply: Correct Frank. I am becoming very wary of anything labeled D or R or Conservative, ans they all fall into the same treasonous basket any more.

YOU ARE A TOTAL IDIOT.YOU ARE EITHER A YOUNG UNINFORMED PERSON WITH NO HISTORY EXPERIENCE AND FORESIGHT. FIRST OF ALL FOX NEWS IS THE ONLY NETWORK THAT HAS BALLS ENOUGH TO HAVE OTHER IDIOTS LIKE YOU GIVE THEIR OPINION'S ON THE AIR,ALAN COLMES FOR EXAMPLE.THE MAJOR NETWORKS HAVE ONLY THE LIBERAL, COMMUNIST ,SOCIALISTIC OPINIONS.
JUST REMEMBER WHEN THEY COME FOR ME ,YOU WILL GO AS WELL!

At this point in time, third parties have about a zero chance at election. Casting a vote in November for a 3rd Party candidate is the same as casting that vote for Obama. I don't recommend it. Personally, I would like to see a strong Conservative Party arise to replace the current GOP. But that must wait for some future time if at all. Today, replacing Obama is what must be done.

@Wayne Peterkin "At this point in time, third parties have about a zero chance at election. Casting a vote in November for a 3rd Party candidate is the same as casting that vote for Obama. I don't recommend it. Personally, I would like to see a strong Conservative Party arise to replace the current GOP. But that must wait for some future time if at all. Today, replacing Obama is what must be done."

ABSOLUTELY CORRECT! That is ALL that's important right now…….getting Obama OUT of office! If someone can't see that they are totally blind to what's happening. I see this coming election as freedoms LAST BEST HOPE (TRUE freedom). Should Republicans loose this coming election we will truly see the end of the U.S. as we know it and have known it. I don't want Ron Paul MAINLY because of his foreign policy views (especially concerning Israel) but if he were to get the nomination I'd vote for him in a New York second! ANYONE BUT OBAMA 2012!!

This President has taken our Country to a new low; to a place I never expected this Country to be in. What will be next since our Constitution is so easily shredded? We must not allow this to continue; it must stop now before it is too late.

How? By doing what we want Congress, Obama and the Supreme Court to do; follow the Constitution. We do still have the power of the vote, and we must not only exercise that power, but convince as many who normally stand by the side of the road to join the parade and get to the polling booth. Voter turnout is traditionally poor in the US, and I feel it's due in part to the fact that too many potential voters simply don't understand (in any given election, not just now) the issues or the candidates. Get them on board and elect representatives who feel as we do. That's how.

Hoof question, Garry. No one seems to know the answer to that, and those of us who do know don't have our replies to that question accepted, as the guts the Founding Fathers had nor the original guardians of liberty had, no longer exists in this generation.

Most of us Conservatives love Ron Paul's stance on fiscal issues, on spending, on domestic issues, but we can't be on board with his foreign policy. It's just not reasonable to believe that there is no threat from Iran and other radical elements in Islam. They will attack us as soon as they have the means to do so. They said they will. They have done it before. They have millions of citizens , many of whom consider it their life goal to be a martyr for Allah. I don't understand those who would deny that and dismiss it as paranoid. Remember, just because your'e paranoid doesn't mean their not out to get you.

EVER HEAR OF REAGAN OF ALZI AND BUSHELOON?
Spend increased 80% and 92%
Debt increased 180% and 112%
Initiated involvement in 7 foreign conflicts
Job creation 94,000 per month to Carter Clinton 220,000
137 investigated for crimes
More convicted than grand total for all since 1900

President Obama’s illegal activity concerning the National Labor Relations Board and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau demands a congressional response. In stark violation of the Constitution, President Obama has unlawfully “appointed” persons to offices without the required consent of the Senate. This dictatorial behavior cannot be allowed to stand unchallenged.

Members of Congress – both senators and representatives – have a duty to answer President Obama’s anti-constitutional behavior. That response should begin in a serious tone, yet permit the President to backtrack from his unlawfulness. I believe one response is for either house of Congress to cancel the State of the Union speech. This speech, customarily permitted at a joint session of Congress, is an honor that is inappropriate in light of the President’s behavior. If the speech is already schedule, senators and representatives should forgo attendance.

When the President behaves outside the Constitution, Congress needs to treat him as a pariah. Such a public censure of the President’s unlawful behavior would help protect the dignity of the Republic, and may jolt the President back from his open despotism.

I have written and written to my Congressman time and time again, month after month about Obama's abuse of the Constitution and his numerous dictatorial power grabs including the most recent illegal appointments in this article. If I get any reply, it is a weak form letter that tells me Obama has not done anything impeachable yet. YET, what does that nean? Ironically, my Congressman is a long tenured Republican. I am exhausted already fighting for our Constitution and cannot fathom why Congress does nothing about this rebellious wannabe dictator that is contrary to what our country stands for. What is Congress afraid of?

We must have a way to immediately deal with those who break Constitutional Law. Obama has broken numerous Constitutional laws and has not been punished while Americans suffer. It is time for punishment for breaking Constitutional laws! Start with jail followed by trial and then punishment. Many people, including BO, should be punihed for allowing BO to run for President when everyone knows he did not qualify to be President. His Father was never a US citizen and that keeps him from being a natural born citizen! It's that simple and has been know before he was elected to dog catcher or any government office.

Ok, I understand that maybe you weren't paying attention to when Bush 43 was president and made "pro-forma" recess appointments just like Obama has. But if your side is going to tout the Constitution, at least know what it says. The 14th amendment means that if Obama was born in the states, then he is a citizen, whether the parents are citizens or illegals. Like it or not, that has been how Section 1 of the 14th amendment has been generally interpreted.

Will lawmakers of both parties reassert the legislature's constitutional authority and take a stand against Obama's arrogant new authoritarianism?
This behavior is beyond all comprehenion and should be stopped immediately and FIRMLY. It is WE THE PEOPLE not his I and ME. Please stand up and be counted .

The day after hearing of the four atrocious appointments and the methodology used, I immediately contact both my Senators and my Congressman with a "They must rally all the other legislators they can and do whatever is required to ensure the measures by "Commandante Sub-Zero" must not stand."

Karen, sadly, nothing will be done. The usual posturing will go on for a short time then it will be forgotten. "Fast and furious" and Solyndra are all but forgotten as the public's attention span is very short.

Where were you when GWBush was exerting unusual executive authoritarianism? Don't tell me you have forgotten all those "signing statements" and the provisions of his Homeland Security Laws and so many other autocratic actions under the guise of national security????? Surely you aren't a "do as I say, not as I do" hypocrite, are you?

I agree with Ben A. here—-what is being done about it. How much more can Mr. O do at his own whim before somebody stops him in his tracks? What about the separation of powers—-doesn't that hold water anymore? Can't that be used to bring charges against this administration that they are breaking every line of the Constitution, and that it will come to a stop? Why do our Congressman and Senators seem to just "sit on their hands" when things like this happen? What can private citizens do to re-claim the Constitutionality of our country's government before O destroys it completely? We read so much, on Heritage, on other conservative websites, about all the negative things that are happening, but we hear very little, if anything about what is being done to stop this cascading disaster. If things are being done, let us know that. The morale of the country is low, and we need some type of encouraging information that we can stop this regime and re-claim our freedoms and our Rule of Law.

We know that the Democrat Representatives and Senators will do nothing. The sad thing is the Republican Representatives and Senators are afraid to do anything. End result – the Constitution and the American Public "take it in the back side".

Will lawmakers of both parties reassert the legislature’s constitutional authority and take a stand against Obama’s arrogant new authoritarianism?

Please! Protect the peoples' Constitution. protect the people! For the president to suggest this is of urgency even though unconstitutional is another slap in the face of all Americans, some know and some don't and some play dumb. The President refuses fair and honest leadership. He is protecting his own with all America owns! Stop letting him take advantage. If these are impeachable grounds, impeach him. "We can't wait!" America can't wait!

Save this country for which she stands! People from around the world come here to live with her TO GET AWAY FROM THIS KIND OF LEADERSHIP! America needs proper, respectful leadership that promotes and respects peoples' freedom, liberties and justice. This President PROMOTES NOR RESPECTS ANY OF THAT!

Freedom is not for free. The loss of freedom must always be feared, and the defense of freedom must be a continuous battle against all the forces of regulation, regimentation, and tyranization. Arbitrary and essentially illegal usurpation of power must be resisted and defeated regardless the source, despite any supposed good will, and against any ultimate negation of power residing in the consent of the governed. Even the name "czars" is more than a hint at the dictatorial essence of their creation and use. Advise and consent is a fundamental part of our constituitional and representational form of limited government. Vote for freedom! Vote against the Obama Administration whenever and however possible to assure responsible and representational government.

Since these appointments are illegal would not the 'rulings', 'decisions', etc made by these people also be illegal? Each and every of their decisions, declarations, etc MUST be taken to court to prove they are indeed legal!!!!! But that would be just like the appointer who himself is likely illegally usurping the power of President with backing from super powerful and wealthy people!!!!! (does the name G. Soros ring a bell?)And I venture to say that this is the reason why nobody challenges anything coming out of the WH. Whatever happened to the institution known as 'The Congress of the United States of America'? Is it gone already????? I wonder how many members of that once great institution have had their pockets lined from unnamed sources?

If not-president Obama's brazen, blatant violation of The Constitution do not rise to the level of high crimes or misdemeanors, then exactly what could a President do that would rise to that level?

But then are the provisions of The Constitution null and void for someone who occupies the office and lives in the White House but who is not Constitutionally eligible to hold the office. Does the rest of The Constitution even apply to someone who has usurped the Presidency and who committed a high crime just by taking the oath of office? Did Chief Justice Roberts perpetrate an impeachable crime by administering the oath to someone who was not Constitutionally eligible to be President?

Are these actions "Illegal"? If so, we have laws that will instruct us on what to do. Prosecute the wrong doers. If the DOJ decided to not enforce the laws that are on the books, then the person in the DOJ that made that decision should at the very leas be fired.

The Congress and Senate better wake up along with a lot of Americans that are'nt aware of what's going on! The usurper has now become a dictator he thinks! That means the legislators are no more employed!! They better get with it and do their work or We The People will have to take matters in our own hands!! We will get rid of the old corrupt government and replace it with a new one, Pronto!! This is according to the Constitution!!

Great article, thank you. I'm funding, supporting and voting for the candidate who supports our constitution. Our federal government, politicians and the judiciary have made kitty litter out of our constitution, so lets remove them from office and elect those who put our constitution first.

But many still like him for some reason and the repubs want to run a middle of the road candidate, so we are AGAIN faced with two bad choices. Clearly, both political parties enjoy the largess that comes with running the railroad more than governing by the Constitution. So our only means of change is to vote out the incumbant members of congress and the senate EACH AND EVERY TIME. There are about 40% of us now who are independents. We ought to be able to get this done over time. We started with the 2010 election. Lets keep it going!

"Whether it will stop here depends on Congress — Will lawmakers of both parties reassert the legislature’s constitutional authority and take a stand against Obama’s arrogant new authoritarianism?"

Easy answer: NO – the Senate may make noise, but they are in on the plot to have and keep power. There is no such thing any more as "public service" for the majority of those "serving" in the hallowed halls of the Senate. Same goes for the House and the spineless leadership there.

As much as I thoroughly detest obama and his ilk, our Congresses have given away the farm many years ago by not exercising their Constitutional duties in creating laws by allowing unelected bureaucrats to create them. obama has recognized that the Repubs are spineless and uses that.

The only way out of this mess is to get rid of approximately 525 of the 535 members of Congress and replace them with real people who are not interested in life-long power trips as elected officials but rather are interested in our country and its one people, Americans – not diverse groups or people from other countries.

I don't think real people would run for these offices! Only gutless wonders that want money, not the protection of the Constitution and Freedom of the American People! We have in the highest office of the land now someone who does not understand anything about our country!! He hates our form of government, the people, our flag, our song, our freedom fought for by our militaries with the greatest sacrifice of life!! Clean out the WH NOW! Send them outside our country!!

"Whether it will stop here depends on Congress — Will lawmakers of both parties reassert the legislature's constitutional authority and take a stand against Obama's arrogant new authoritarianism?"

Short answer: Not likely. If Congress had the guts to put an end to his actions it would have done so long before things reached this point. I fear for the republic, I truly do. We have got to stand up and be counted, and put pressure on our representatives in both houses, and I don't mean only those who agree with us that the man has gone way too far. Preaching to the choir won't help, we have to show Congress what happened in 2010 was only the beginning.

And yet the gutless cowardly at every turn to do a damned thing about it, they are a bunch of limp-wristed surrender monkeys who refuse to honor their own Oaths of Office and do right by the very people who put them into office. All the GOP in response to Obama's repeated acts of TREASON is roll over and let him do whatever he wants. The Republicans, by failing to stand up against Obama's tyranny, are complicit in it. Disgraceful.

This is 1002 times I have pushed to Impeach Obama, Biden and their entire staffs. This is pure Socialism in action and we DO NOT HAVE ANYONE PUSHING THE AFOREMENTIONED. I have spent hundreds of dollars in postage sending forms to everyone I know to send them to with no responses. I believe nearly all 500 people in the House and Senate have received these forms and still no response. I have mentioned it to The Heritage organization multiple times and all I get is more begging for more money and even at that there is still no action being taken. In fact, I would bet this doesn't even get shown. No more money from me until I see some sort of action or at least response to tell WE THE PEOPLE why nothing is being done.

The points you make are, of course, of the greatest possible importance to the survival of our nation. I have voted in every Presidential election since 1968, always for the Republican candidate, but, of course, not always for the winner. Although in the latter circumstance, many of the actions of the elected President were worrisome, never, until the current administration, did I believe that the ongoing existence of this country as it was formed by our Constitution, was in danger. Yes, thank you for this. Unfortunately, though, these comments should be offered by the candidates running for President. Rather than tearing each other apart, they must stop worrying about their individual desires for power and instead consistently and relentlessly inform the public of why the endless "sound good" initiatives illegally forced on us by the current administration are dangerous power grabs, not kindness. It is utterly naive for any Republican primary candidate to believe that every attack they make now on whoever of them is selected as the Republican candidate for President will not be used by the Liberal Media against that candidate during the campaign. However, the truth as explained in the above article will never be mentioned.

The United States was once a great country, freedom for the values we once held dear. There seems to be no more fredom for us.. everything has drastically Changed for the worse in the past 3 years…We the People should stand up for the constitution and all that it stand for…No One including the President should be allow to do whatever he wants…It is for the People and by the Peolpe , not for the government and by the government / president to do whatever they WANT!

Oooooh! The President mad recess appointments… how arrogant and authoritarian! Oh ! Wait…. haven't Presidents, both D's and R's been doing this for years? Did Heritage JUST start paying attention or do they suffer from amnesia? Can you say AGENDA…

Book to read – BOMB POWER by Garry Willis. Since the middle of WWII, military budgets have been used to finance whatever secret project government wants to explore. Secrecy in the name of National Security…..security that is often times worked from both ends. Let or make something happen, then scream "we need to take your liberty in order to protect you". If the office of President can bypass the courts, he has no limits.
Did you hear that the recent Defenxe Bill repealed Posse Comitatus (1878) and not only allows Federal troops to once again occupy a state, but has a Battalion assigned to the Pentagon – trained in Urban Pacification. Government is TOTALLY ready for ANY action the people want to take.

We the people have reaped the seeds we have sown..electing a president that was not vetted properly; not critical of a media that is on a road to socialism; listening to the generalities of Congress with no specific policy just good politics but bad policy, and enslaving a nation in debt through reckless spending. May we the people repent and address the specifics this election and elect those who will provide the specific programs within the frame work of the constitution and not good politics— less we go under as a nation.

I hear all this about "trampling the constitution" and I am troubled at what can be done about it as an earlier posting asked. Can congress start impeachment proceedings against the Executive branch (read President)? I thought he swore to uphold the constitution.

I often wonder if the average guy on the street really understands all the details of what Obama, any polician for that matter, has done and how it will effect them, their families, and most important, their JOBS. If only people, and the Political Pundits like Hannity, Colms, Rush Lumbaugh, and worst of all, Ed Schultz (who is bad about calling people bad names on the airwaves) would discusss the issues in the same way, and with the same enthusiasm they discuss yesterdays ball scores, and touchdowns, the United States would have a better chance, and a more enlightened people, of getting outselves out of this mess. OkiTaro in Okinawa, Japan.

If he is not stopped, there will be no election, he'll declare himself "President for life", he's just wading in and the deeper he gets without being stopped the deeper he'll go. Both him and his wife honestly believe they are better, smarter than the rest of us and that they and they alone can safe us from ourselves. We need to stop this insanity NOW, Congress needs to act, articles of impeachment need to be files ASAP. Lets put a mirror in front of "The Emporeor" so he can see he has "no clothes".

This is the same man who, upon receiving the nomination to run for President of the USA, immediately removed the American Flag from his campaign plane and replaced it with his own Obama logo. How can anyone be surprised at his actions. He has said that "the constitution is a document of NEGATIVE rights". We had all better pray hard that he is only in office for another 376 days. Beyond that, we're toast.

We're doomed as a Constitutional Republic. We can't expect the Republicans in Congress to do anything about it. They wouldn't even listen to us when we said he wasn't properly vetted and is a usurper! The only thing we can do is vote Obama out in November, along with all the incumbent Republicans who are up for re-election. Obama is quickly destroying our once beloved country, and we have to do something about it ourselves, because for some reason, the lunk-headed Republicans are afraid of being called racist if they even criticize him! I don't give a flip about the color of his skin! I was ready to vote for Herman Cain, if he became our nominee! It's his policies and beliefs I don't agree with, and I hope enough of the voters feel the same way and get to the polls in November to get rid of this monstrosity!!!

Of course these unilateral appointments are illegal, the Senate was not in recess. And what are our stalwart Republicans doing about it? The bravest of them are making strongly worded statements period, that's it. And for all his failed domestic and foreign policy programs, Obama will be re-elected, at least if the Republicans have anything to say abouit it. The primary candidates continue to cannibalize each other and the ultimate losers are already threatening to run as third and fourth party candidates. No matter how desasterious his policies have been, no matter how arrogant his abuse of power, the Republicans will see to it that this president gets another four years to complete this nation's transition to third world status.

There is only one solution in order to address violations of the U.S. Constitution and that is to file suit directly with the Supreme Court on behalf of the American people.
Logic dictates that the Republican Party file the suit, but the question is – does the Republican Party "Leadership" even give a damn about the Constitution, much less the American people?
And that's the real question that needs to be addresed.

Glad you are reporting this as most media is taken up with the primary election. BUT, what can be done and is anyone doing anything to correct this??????? We also need some solutions, corrective actions, course of action, something!

Great reporting, at least the alternate news sources keep us informed (as opposed to the government-controlled media). But here's the missing element: There is no one to do anything about it. Vote him out? 43% of Americans actually think he's doing a good job. Where's the GOP leadership? They're caught up fighitng each other for the nomination, arguing about Romney's hair, about his harmless statement about firing people (taken out of context). Unless Reagan can rise from the dead, we are as a nation. The U.S. will not survive as a free nation if Obama is re-elected.

Of course it's true. Obama's Chicago, thug tactics and lying are very evident now. He has no use for the Constitution or rules that stand in his way. Socialism in America and big government controlling our lives is his cup of tea. Self-will run riot. If the congress does not address his latest power grab, we may have to wait for the courts to judge individual cases, where the people have been harmed by Obama's actions.I

Perhaps it is time for a 5 Million Man Occupy Washington DC March. WE THE PEOPLE need to tell Congress to do their job and stop kissing this president's behind. They impeached Clinton for a BJ in the Oval Office. Obama sits on his throne in the White House passing Executive Order after Executive Order, most of them illegal and NOTHING is done. Wake Up America. Let's take advantage of freedom of speech before it ceases to exist!!

Heritage is not doing us a lot of good by just telling us every day that these things are happening (My Morning Bell is starting to sound like a bunch of gossiping old hens that complain for the sake of complaining and have no desire or motivation to correct what is wrong). They should be telling us who is allowing these things to happen and what can be done to prevent it. Heritage can put pressure on and call out where the system is breaking down. The Framers anticipated these power-grabs, abuses and usurpations and structured our government so there would be the means to prevent as well as stop them. We have to look at this one of two ways: (1)This is how the United States is supposed to work -or- (2) Some people are not doing their jobs.

At what point are we going to arrest or impeach these people? They need to be afraid of us and they are not. We've become subjects. I am really afraid we're getting to the point of a confrontation between Americans and the politicians. These pols are not our country, not even our govt, they are merely the current occupants and in almost every case they need to be run off. There is no such thing as an innocent bystander. They took oaths and until I see them on the steps of Congress screaming to get their co-conspirators arrested-they too are part of the problem. I fire employees that don't do their job. We've tried voting and it hasn't worked. We merely get a different brand of thief and liar. If the above is true why hasn't the Speaker or someone started steps to correct it? Soon I'm afraid it'll have to be taken into our own hands since we have far exceeded the "taxation without representation" arena. God Bless America

Excellent summary of the abuse of power and the constitution. We need to make this a key, focused issue and keep going after Congress to start impeachment proceedings now rather than taking a 6 day trip to Central and South America like the Speaker of the House and some fellow congressmen are doing. They need to feel the pressure from "we the people" and do the right thing; now.

Since when is a workplace a democracy? Just imagine how quickly the country will fall apart if every person who has realized they can vote themselves benefits via govt elections begins doing the same at work!

I'm waiting for a statesman to stand up and propose a moratorium on new legislation except for those bills which would begin repealing the existing tyrannical structure we already live under, if you can call it living.

My question assuming all the facts are correct (which personally I don't doubt), what is being done by Congress? Be it Democrat ,Republican or Libertarian they owe it to the American people to address this quickly, if need be in all forms of media to get action.

If you love our country, the Constitution and the freedoms it affords us, there is no way you can vote for Obama in 2012. Move to socialist countries and see how that works for you. We must speak the truth about what is going on in America now and work very hard to get back our freedoms. Politically correct is a farce.

Why are you just talking about it? We already know the problem. What are you doing about it? What are the legal channels we can go through to get rid of this pestilence? There is a time to be serious and not worry about stepping on toes. Nor is this even a debatable question – our Constitution tells us all we need to know.

I'll believe you are serious when you take action, or, at least, describe the action citizens need to take.

Look how much Obama has strayed from American traditions, laws and mores. How much more will he do if given a second term. In my opinion he will create chaos,declare martial law,suspend elections and end presidential term limits. I think he has called his appointees " CZARS" to get us used to hearing the term and in the end become THE czar ! As he likes to say " WE CAN'T WAIT"

By ourelves we can do nothing, together we can do what is necessary to turn the country back to American principles. If nothing else we can help groups like Heritage and right to work organizations with money and moral support and vocal support. Otherwise prepare yourself to answer the question; " WHAT DID YOU DO WHILE THE COUNTRY WAS BEING STOLEN, GRANDPA.

DO NOT LET THEM SPLIT OUR VOTE BY SUPPORTING A THIRD PARTY MOVEMENT ! FIRST WE MUST STOP OBAMA. THEN WE CAN ARGUE ABOUT WHAT SHOULD BE DONE!

We the People have to show up, get a CLEAR and LOUD VOICE:
NO OBAMACARE
NO CZARS
NO EPA
NO DREAM ACT
NO RE-ELECTION
The Heritage Foundation, The TEA Parties, The 9/12 groups and other Conservative and Constitutionally oriented organizations can and should STOP OBAMA NOW!

“Well, there you go again.” (RR to JC 1980 debates) BUT THE HUMOR is gone. Nothing Obama is doing is funny; he means it.
The Obama Administration has unleashed one attack after another on America’s Freedom and Prosperity; no one can ignore these assaults any longer as anything less than as he stated 5 days before his inauguration;” …I will fundamentally change the United States of America!”. His Czars, his EPA (with or without Cap and Trade), his ObamaCare, his Dodge – Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act AND Tens of Thousands of Pages of NEW LAWS were sitting on The Socialist’s shelves waiting for the combination of an Obama / Pelosi / Reid !
We The People must concern ourselves not only with replacing Obama, Reid and a Majority in the Senate; but AS IMPORTANTLY, STOPPING THE LAWLESS ACTS HE AND HIS BUREAUCRATIC DESPOTS*ARE ATTEMPTING everyday until the Inauguration…if The Republic lasts till then.
* Dr. Larry Arrn, President of Hillsdale College stated in part “…bureaucratic despotism is more dangerous than Socialism.” Thank you Dr. Arrn.

Well, what it really boils down to is that our Constitutional system of goverance to be vialble and work properly, we must have politicans who have honor, integrity and the notion that they aren't bigger or better than the country titself. So, the problem becomes obvious and the Democrats, again, must share the lions share of the disfunction.

Congress needs to start inforcing the Constitution as it is written. They need to pass alaw that will stop this kind of abussive power from D or R that is President. We are suppose to have check and balances for a reason. This needs to be inforced.
It is time that our legislature's start represnted WE THE PEOPLE.
Pray America.

No one has mentioned the Supreme Court. Do they live in outer space and have no idea what is going on in this country? Or don't they have any idea of what the constitution is all about? As a citizen don't they have the right to bring thbe other two branches in line.

If our law makers don't stand up and protect our constitution, We need to fire them. Both parties. Come on Americans, if you're tired of what is going on, write, get on the phone,let your voice be heard by your representitives in congress.

King Obama once again demonstrated his narcissistic arrogance and he must be stopped – so where is the outrage and action by those in congress with the ability to do something about it. Are they all going to sit on their hands until we the people get so fed up we have to take matters unto ourselves??

Question for the Heritage Foundation. How, exactly, would the legislature "take a stand"? The only recourse I can see would be articles of impeachment, but everyone tells me that is "too drastic". But what else can be done, in an official way, to protest this, apart from more parliamentary maneuvering, which we are all heartily sick of.

I'm a conservative and registered Republican. Why are the Republicans in Congress not standing up and taking steps to disallow the President's appointments? If they are illegal, can't something be done? I'm getting more and more upset with the non actions taken by Congress, and in particular, the Republicans, to confront Obama on this, or any other issues. Is it any wonder that their approval ratings are so low? A reminder to each person in Congress, we voted you in and we can vote you out. Also, what is this statement that came down from the RNC— We can criticize Obama's actions, but not him personally? This is crazy! Take off the gloves and expose this man for who he is. Do you not realize that if you don't, we may have this inept person for another 4 years?

If our congress doesn't stand up for unconstitutional actions of this president, why are they there anyway? Some one needs to stop Obama's pressing forward in aggressive, unconstitutional ways. What can we do? I have contacted both my senators and my congressman. How do we let this go on…..this outrageous overreach.

The "Wimps in Congress" will let this last act stand, JUST as they do everything else King Obama does.
They wonder why Their approval ratings are in the toilet? Here's just another reason. They are like little frightened girls afraid to stand up and stop this fraud.

I thought Heritage Foundation was influential enough to guide us through these tough issues. The best hope I can see is the brave judge in Georgia. Never thought I would live to see such rampant corruption.

During the 2008 campaign for president, a gnawing and disquieting fear became my shadow companion, though I've only been able to bring it into the light over the last year and identify it.
ThisFEAR for my Constitution, my country, my family and the posterity of all has increased in intensity with each dictatorial edict and "end-around" that Obama and his regime has effected.

I've been telling all who will listen that a bloodless, bullet-less coup is underway by the Marxist elite intelligentsia who bulldoze inexorably toward their aim–totalitarianism.
The latest traitorous act committed by Obama, the "recess appointments to the NLRB and Consumer Financial "Protection" Bureau should elicit immediate and sustained outrage, eclipse the ridiculously overblown Republican Presidential Primary for notice and immediately culminate in impeachment charges and Senate trial for treason.

Sworn to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, Barack Obama has and is doing his utmost to render it null and void instead.

This is TREASON plainly and simply–subverting the US Constitution with the goal to surreptitiously overthrow our democratic republic for which so many have sacrificed so much for 236 years.

This is an outrage of the highest order! WE are now called to equal our forebears and accept our duty to save our country and secure the legacy and future of liberty.

Doesn't Article 2 Section 3 of the constitution allow the president to adjorn Congress – 'he may adjourn them to such Time as he shall think proper' – seems to me he's within his right to do so if the Congress refused to go on recess and stayed in proforma was sole purpose of blocking appointments.

Plus, recess appointments can only stay in their position until the end of next congress.

Funny how Reagan made 240 recess apointments and GWBush made 171 recess appointments. Obama has made 30 and the conservatives have gone crazy over it. I think Obama should use his constitutional authority to adjourn Congress – then appoint another 200 people to catch up to Reagan!

My problem with all this mess, is that the Congress or Senate do not stand up to him. He is this big bully and they act afraid of him. Why is he not being impeached? He has continued to bully legislation through, make illegal appointments, has still not shown proof that he is even legal to be our President! On top of that, some of his appointments (Holder) need to have legal action taken against them for their illegal activities while in appointment.

Worse yet, our own State legislators are unwilling to stand up for the people of their States and say NO to all these laws that are making the States and the people poor. The only ones making money on all this stuff are our illustrious leaders in DC, banks, lobbyist, etc. and we continue to loose our income.

I think Obama is taking advantage of all the media attention to the Republican candidates – thinking what he is doing won't get much attention and he can do whatever he wants. So where is Fox News coverage and outrage about this? I think Fox News should get out of the primary spin enough to report in depth on how Obama is destroying our constitution. People are really sick of not being informed and TV news seems to have become just a show, and if Fox News can't make a big deal about Obama's illegal appointments, who will? People want the facts and they want to see and know what is being done about it.

I contacted my Republican Congressman and his reponse to this President's action was "we wrote him a letter and complained" I informed him writing a letter complaining about constitutionally illegal actions was inappropriate. What exactly was he and the rest of Congress going to DO. He they do nothing, I believe they should all go home since they are just as far outside of the Constitution as is the President. If they went home at least we could cut unnecessary governmental expense.

we know what this despot has done and is doing to our Country and our free society ….

tell us HOW to STOP IT! That's what we need to do now..and we people are very frustrated with all these articles…as we clearly know this before the articles are printed! HOW do we stop it when the Republicans are wimps and self serving impotents?!
All I need to know is how to stop them….and I am on it!

Ben A. Mammina,
NOTHING will be done. Our politicians have very soft backbones. They speak loudly but have little action when it comes to the Constitution.
It appears to me that our voices are falling on deaf ears and writing and voicing our concern is not working. Do you remember what happened when you were young and was told not to do something and proceeded to continue your actions that were prohibited? There was a forceful enforcement of the rules you were not following.

Since Obama has continued to thumb his nose at Congress and the Constitution with these appointments, how can they be negated? Lawsuits can be filed which may take months to resolve. Can funding be withheld, for these agencies or for the salary of the appointees?

The problem is this administration has no legal authority given to it by our constitution or WE THE PEOPLE to do much of what they have done……and they won't stop so it is time to ask them to resign or we need to remove them from office……we need to revoke their citizenships, freeze their assets and remove them from our country and many of them owe our national treasury millions…..we've had enough….my question is – who do these people think they are? God gave us this nation, they didn't…..they have no allegiance to WE THE PEOPLE, our constitution, our heritage or our way of life…..it is an honor to be an American, but this current regime does not resemble what being a real American is all about…..they've set themselves up as God and expect us to be theirs servants and pay for everything…it is time to shut them down, we have the right per our constitution to abolish the federal government that time has come…..all we need is a military to protect our borders our sovereignty…it is time to rebuild our nation and get the federal government out of everything period.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, –That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness

Time to remove O'Bama from office "YES WE CAN:…….time to shut down the majority of the illegal and unconstitutional federal government "YES WE CAN"….time to get back to the basics of our constitution which does not involve the federal goverment involved in our lives and business and involved in every industry (destroyng every industry in our nation)……"YES WE CAN"

The Aerican people MUST take back their country. We all comment on how Obama tramples the constitition but are any of us ready to assume a counter attack? I've contacted Boehner and my senatorJohnson which appears to be useless. Obama took an oath to uphold the constitution….he has NOT! He should be tried for treason…..he has sold this country short and we do NOTHING, he has laughed in the faces of ALL Americans and we do NOTHING!….he has made a mockery of our founding fathers and we Americans do NOTHING! It's becoming a bit uncomfortable to say we live "in the land of the free and the home of the brave". Any ideas?!

Reported off the grid… the D.C. sniper that was blowing out White House windows (before Xmas vacation) reported , " not capture". As reported off the grid this isn't the first time this has happened.
I pose this not a solution, but as a reality based fact that this administration has engineered shame upon our country and they're a lot of P.O. people.
In my America, in less than 250 years we have changed the face of our world as we know it, with American inventiveness, integrity and "under God." .
Thank you for the article and if someone wants to expound about the WH' sniper under the F.of Info Act , please do tell.

Why are we just talking about it? We already know the problem. What are we going to do about it? What are the legal channels we can go through to get rid of an administration whose sole intention has always been to undermine our Constitution and overthrow our country's government? There is a time to be serious and not worry about stepping on toes. Our current predicament is not even a debatable question – our Constitution tells us all we need to know.

Again, all good comments. If there is anyone out there who believes in "God," then we better be on our knees and praying to Him. "He" is the one that can correct the situation we are faced with. Because apparently no other politician is going to step forward. Have mercy on us all for our weakness.

Obama has contempt for the electoral process. If he could, he'd probably be like Hugo Chavez, and run in perpetuity. He probably agrees with North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue. Governor Perdue suggested that
we should get rid of elections for the good of the country.

Someone needs to take these illegal actions to heart and pursue the approproate action. I feel certain that there will be a ground swell of support such that the person or organization that takes the lead will have a following that will exceed the level of support anticipated

Stu, Seattle
I am not an attorney, but how do we move those members of Congress out and put in those who will follow the Constitution? Also, if Obama is using his own interpretation of the Constitution, why can we not impeach him? This is our country, not his!!

Heritage has described Obama's Despotic Form of Government, and the end run around the Clean Air Act, Dream Act, Employee Free Choice Act, the FCC, No Child Left Behind law, marijuana use, Defense of Marriage Act.

@ Mell,
The Heritage Foundation's job isn't to "do" something about the abuses by this administration, it is to point out the trashing of the Constitution. Heritage does try to educate members of Congress about the Constitution and conservative values. It also sponsors seminars and internships for young people to learn our founding documents and values.
There are organizations such as Faith & Action, USJF, Judicial Watch and many others that are bringing lawsuits against the overreaches by this administration. Help them and you are doing as much or more than just writing or calling your Senator or Congressional 'representative'.

Articles of Impeachment must start in the Judicial Comm. then brought to full House of Rep. If they pass they are then presented to the Senate for trial, the later is most likely the reason no articles have been brought forth as any fool would know Reid would table them and they would never go further in the Senate. I've read the causes and I am sure they could be brought forth BUT when 2/3 rds of the Senate is needed to remove him, WELL?? I am not sure who's on Judicuary Commitee, it hey be dems, the articles will not reach House floor.

to the Heritage Foundation….. as I went into this part of the site to express my sentiments and observations, (which I never do) I found that many of my concerns and ideas were already being expressed by many others. This isn't rocket science. People with common sense and basic knowledge of the constitution understand the abuses of the constitution that are taking place under this and past administrations….although none as flagrant as this current one.
1) The Heritage foundation should begin a segment to respond to some of the questions being raised …in this case…..why isn't the president being impeached.
2) Why aren't the Republican Candidates speaking out on these issues specifically and asking their conterparts in Congress to take action against the president.
3) Progressivism and all that it stands for in terms of diversion from the principles of the constitution must be identified and refuted by those in congress. Those congressmen supporting the constitution should sign on the bottom line, letting everyone know where they stand on the defense and support of the constitution.

I e-mailed several people, Like Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannitty and Bill O'Rielly that I thought that Obama would trash the Constution and if he loose the election this year, I'm afaid that he'll declare himself ruller for life, because that's what he wants.

All those that want to continue their freedom should be "repeatedly" blasting their representatives in the house and senate to take initial impeachment action on Obama. This country can't survive with this self apponinted dictator at the helm.

I'll say it again! If we cannot depend on Congress to enforce the laws of this nation, the Constitution being the supreme law of the land, then it seems like tyranny will prevail which results in eventual chaos.

Heritage and other conservative sources have warned us repeatedly of the illegal and unconstitutional actions of the Obama administration. What are they doing to bring this action to an end and convict the perpetrators? Heritage is in constant contact with the House of Representatives and the Senate. As our clients, take meaningful action.

1/10/12
The Heritage Foundation and other conservative sources have been sounding the alarm alerts for months. Now we are told Obama's recent unconstitutional appointments justify congressional action. Who will be leading the charge? Heritage deals with congressional leaders daily. Will Heritage take action or not?

I know this must be naive, I've asked before, but how do we fix this? I am 65. When I was growing up and going to school we were taught that the 3 branches of government provided balance that kept any one branch from taking over as is happening with the Legislative branch now. Were we taught incorrectly? How is this supposed to be fixed? My first guess would have been the DOJ, but hey…

In the pantheon of progressive gods are the patron saints of the Progressive liberals:Rousseau, Robbespierre Marx, Mao, Lenin, Wilson,
And the patron saints in the RNC seem to be Pontius Pilate and Neville Chamberlain.

The spirit of the Constitution is determined by activist judges. The spirit is (from dictionary.com) the general meaning or intent of a statement, document, etc. ( opposed to letter): the spirit of the law. The correct statement would be the intent of the Constitution or better yet, the original Intent (a good title to a good read).
Additional resolutions:
origional intent of the Constitution, not spirit
republic or representative republic, not democracy
limited government or federalism, not smaller government

We citizens know that what the president did is illegal, too bad our republican representives don't. It would be nice if our elected representatives would start protecting us from this stuff. Isn't that why they were elected ?

What is wrong with the republican party they are so weak and afraid of Obama .This man should be impeached for abuse of power.I know the democrat control the senate but what is wrong with the house ? Lets face it Obama is the enemy of the people threatening the future of our country and destroying our constitution. Its best to start the process in the house to bring his abuse of power to the people .

Gentlemen; Please understand that this is a tactic to get what he wants. It is not illegal, just fraudulent and
unjustified. President Bush did it many, many times as well. What we need the Heritage to do is #1. Let everyone know that it is done in every Presidency and #2. Tell us what we can realistically do about it. Even if is only to bring attention to his tactics and underhanded methods. Talk of impeachment doesn't do one single thing to advance us toward his defeat in 1012.

Whatever comes affects US all. It does not matter who you voted for.
How Do You Kill 11 Million People?: Why the Truth Matters More Than You Think (Hardcover)
Andy Andrews,
Each president recites the following oath, in accordance with Article II, Section I of the U.S. Constitution:

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
They Thought They Were Free: The Germans, 1933-45 (Paperback) Milton Mayer describes exactly what is happening in our US!!! MoooooOOOO

I hear you telling us about his abuses and illegal activities, but I don't see any one of you responding withing your powers of elected position to eradicate this problem. I only hear and see you talking about how much worse he is making it on our nation. Weren't you all hired to protect us from these kinds of abuses?

As far as I'm concerned, this is just "business as usual" within the Beltway. Doesn't matter if it is Democrats or Republicans. Until the AMERICAN PEOPLE demand a new code of ethics and morality within our governments (and private sector) we will only sink deeper into this mess…

Term limits is the only answer!!! These people in power so despise the electorate as to totally disregard the Constitution! As long as they have the ability to keep voting themselves perks and to not be subject to the laws they create for us peons, there will be no improvement! It is a "good ol' boys club" and whether they are R or D they only look out for themselves and support one another in their respective corruption! How can we hope to eliminate corruption in the presidency when those who have that ability (i.e. the Congress) are essentially corrupt themselves? Vote them all out! Vote for term limits! Send no money to the RNC or the DNC, just to those few who have demonstrated their fealty to the Constitution!

The person having the greatest Number of votes for President, shall be the President, if such number be a majority of the whole number of Electors appointed; and if no person have such majority, then from the persons having the highest numbers not exceeding three on the list of those voted for as President, the House of Representatives shall choose immediately, by ballot, the President. But in choosing the President, the votes shall be taken by states, the representation from each state having one vote; a quorum for this purpose shall consist of a member or members from two-thirds of the states, and a majority of all the states shall be necessary to a choice. And if the House of Representatives shall not choose a President whenever the right of choice shall devolve upon them, before the fourth day of March next following, then the Vice-President shall act as President, as in the case of the death or other constitutional disability of the President.[1]

Don’t have time to read the Washington Post or New York Times? Then get The Morning Bell, an early morning edition of the day’s most important political news, conservative commentary and original reporting from a team committed to following the truth no matter where it leads.

Email address

Ever feel like the only difference between the New York Times and Washington Post is the name? We do. Try the Morning Bell and get the day’s most important news and commentary from a team committed to the truth in formats that respect your time…and your intelligence.